The Livescribe Echo 2 is a digital smartpen that records audio while capturing your handwritten notes. Designed for students, professionals, and anyone who wants a smarter way to take notes, this pen helps you review important information by syncing voice and handwriting. In this Livescribe Echo 2 review, I’ll cover the features, pros and cons, how it compares to the Symphony model, and whether it’s worth the money.
What Is the Livescribe Echo 2?
The Livescribe Echo 2 is the updated version of the original Echo smartpen. It works with special dot paper and captures everything you write. While you write, it can also record the audio around you. Later, you can tap a word and hear what was being said at that time.
It’s a pen, a voice recorder, and a note manager—all in one.
Key Features of the Livescribe Echo 2
- Smart Pen Writing: Uses infrared technology to capture notes on Livescribe dot paper.
- Audio Syncing: Records sound and links it to your writing.
- USB Connectivity: Easily connects to your computer via USB-C.
- Livescribe+ App Integration: Syncs notes to your computer or mobile device.
- Built-in Memory: Stores notes and audio without needing a phone nearby.
- Searchable Notes: Handwritten notes can be converted into searchable text.
- Long Battery Life: Supports hours of note-taking and recording on a single charge.
What’s in the Box?
When you buy the Echo 2, the box includes:
- 1 Echo 2 Smartpen
- 1 Dot Paper Starter Notebook
- 1 USB-C charging cable
- Ink refill
- Quick start guide
This gives you everything you need to get started.
How Does the Livescribe Echo 2 Work?
The Echo 2 uses a small infrared camera near the pen tip. This camera detects the special dot pattern on Livescribe paper. While you write, it captures your strokes in real time. At the same time, the pen can record audio using its built-in microphone. Both are stored together.
Later, when you sync the pen with your device, you can view the notes, tap on a word, and hear what was said when you wrote it. You can also export the notes or share them as PDFs or text.
Echo 2 vs. Livescribe Symphony
Both the Echo 2 and the Livescribe Symphony are smartpens, but they work differently. Here’s a simple comparison:
| Feature | Livescribe Echo 2 | Livescribe Symphony |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | USB-C | Bluetooth |
| Audio Recording | On-pen (built-in mic) | Through smartphone app |
| Note Viewing | Desktop via Echo Desktop | Livescribe+ app (mobile/desktop) |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours | Similar |
| Works Offline | Yes | Yes |
| Paper Requirement | Livescribe dot paper | Livescribe dot paper |
| Price Range | Moderate | Slightly higher |
Looking for more details on the Symphony model? Check our Livescribe Symphony Pen Review.
Pros of the Livescribe Echo 2
- No phone needed: Everything is stored on the pen.
- Easy syncing: USB-C makes transferring notes fast.
- Great for lectures and meetings: Captures everything clearly.
- No internet needed: Can record and write even offline.
- Compatible with Echo Desktop: Lets you view, edit, and export notes on your computer.
- Accurate handwriting capture: Detects even fast writing with precision.
Cons of the Livescribe Echo 2
- Needs dot paper: Can’t work on regular notebooks.
- No Bluetooth: Must use USB to sync data.
- Works only with Windows and macOS: No mobile app support.
- Can feel bulky: Heavier than a standard pen.
- Limited app integration: Doesn’t support cloud sync automatically.
Who Should Buy the Livescribe Echo 2?
This pen is great for:
- College students: Especially those attending long lectures.
- Journalists: Want to take notes and record interviews.
- Lawyers and paralegals: For keeping track of court discussions.
- Business professionals: Ideal for meetings and brainstorming.
- People with ADHD or dyslexia: Helps by linking voice and handwriting.
If you’re someone who takes a lot of notes and wants to capture both voice and text, this pen will help you save time and avoid missing anything important.
How to Set Up the Echo 2
Setting up the Echo 2 is easy:
- Charge the pen using the USB-C cable.
- Install the Echo Desktop software from us.livescribe.com.
- Connect the pen to your computer.
- Open the software and follow the setup steps.
- Start writing on the dot paper and press the “record” button to start capturing audio.
You can later tap the notes to hear what was said at that moment.
Real User Experience
Many users praise the Echo 2 for being reliable and simple to use. They like that the pen works without needing a phone or internet. Audio recording is clear, and syncing via USB is fast.
However, some users feel the lack of Bluetooth and cloud syncing limits its flexibility. Also, being tied to Livescribe’s dot paper can be inconvenient.
Watch a full review here: YouTube – Livescribe Echo 2 Hands-On
Livescribe Dot Paper: Why It’s Important
Livescribe pens need dot paper to work. This paper has thousands of tiny microdots printed on it. The pen reads these dots to track where you write. The Echo 2 comes with a starter notebook, but you can buy more notebooks or print dot paper from the Livescribe website.
Without dot paper, the pen can’t capture your writing.
Livescribe Echo 2 for Students
Students benefit the most from the Echo 2. During a lecture, you don’t need to worry about writing everything. Just take light notes, and the pen will record the voice. Later, you can tap a word to hear what the teacher said.
This is a game-changer for learning. You can also convert your notes to text and search for keywords later.
Also read: Livescribe Symphony vs Echo 2
Livescribe Echo 2 for Professionals
In meetings, the Echo 2 helps you stay focused. Instead of typing or writing everything, let the pen do the work. After the meeting, go back to the notes, tap, and replay the conversation.
This is also useful for lawyers, doctors, and journalists who need to recall exact details.
FAQs
What is the Livescribe Echo 2 used for?
The Livescribe Echo 2 is used to capture handwritten notes and record audio at the same time. When you write on special dot paper, the pen records your writing and links it to the audio it captures. This helps you play back what was said when a specific note was written, which is useful for lectures, meetings, or interviews.
Do I need special paper for the Echo 2?
Yes. The Echo 2 only works on Livescribe dot paper. The pen reads a unique pattern of dots printed on the paper to track your handwriting. Regular notebooks won’t work. You can buy official Livescribe notebooks or print dot paper from the Livescribe website.
Does the Echo 2 need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?
No. The Echo 2 works without Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. It stores everything directly on the pen. You can connect the pen to your computer with a USB-C cable to transfer notes and audio. This makes it great for users who don’t want to rely on internet connections.
Can the Echo 2 record conversations?
Yes. The pen has a built-in microphone that records conversations clearly. Just press the record icon printed on the dot paper to start recording. You can later tap your notes to replay the exact part of the conversation when that note was written.
Is there a mobile app for the Echo 2?
No. The Echo 2 works with the Echo Desktop software, which is available for Windows and macOS. It does not connect to a mobile app like the Livescribe Symphony does. All syncing is done through USB.
How do I save my notes from the Echo 2?
Connect the pen to your computer using the USB-C cable. Open the Echo Desktop software, and it will automatically sync your notes and recordings. You can save notes as PDFs or convert them into searchable text.
Can I share my handwritten notes with others?
Yes. You can export notes from the Echo Desktop software as PDF files and share them by email or cloud storage. Audio recordings can also be shared as MP3 files.
How long does the Echo 2 battery last?
On a full charge, the battery lasts up to 12 hours, depending on how much you write or record. It charges using a USB-C cable and typically takes around 90 minutes for a full charge.
Can I replace the ink in the Echo 2?
Yes. The ink cartridge is replaceable. It uses standard Livescribe-compatible ink refills. You can buy replacements online or from office supply stores that carry smartpen accessories.
Is the Echo 2 good for students?
Yes. The Echo 2 is especially helpful for students who attend long lectures. You don’t need to write down everything. You can write short notes while the pen records the audio. Later, you can tap your notes and hear the exact part of the lecture. This helps improve understanding and saves study time.
Can I use the Echo 2 to transcribe my handwriting?
Yes. While the pen itself does not transcribe handwriting, the Echo Desktop software can convert your handwritten notes into searchable text. This helps you organize and search through your notes faster.
Is the Livescribe Echo 2 worth it?
If you often take notes in lectures, meetings, or interviews and want a way to capture both writing and audio together, then yes—it’s worth it. It saves time, helps with accuracy, and ensures you never miss anything important.
Final Verdict: Is the Echo 2 Worth It?
The Livescribe Echo 2 is a smart tool for people who value accurate notes and voice syncing. It’s ideal for students, professionals, and anyone tired of missing important details.
You should buy the Echo 2 if you want:
- A self-contained smartpen with no app dependency
- Clear audio recording
- Easy setup and offline use
You might skip it if you want:
- Bluetooth and cloud syncing
- A lightweight, slim pen
- Use on regular paper
Overall, the Livescribe Echo 2 is a solid investment for efficient note-taking.
Where to Buy the Livescribe Echo 2
You can purchase the Echo 2 directly from Livescribe’s Official Website.
Make sure to buy extra dot paper and ink refills if you plan to use the pen daily.